CERN claims antimatter breakthrough

Antimatter has been captured by scientists for the first time in a physics breakthrough that echoes the hit Hollywood movie Angels & Demons.

Researchers at the European Nuclear Research Centre (CERN), in Geneva claimed that they had trapped dozens of hydrogen "antimatter" atoms, a technical feat that significantly boosts research into one of the great puzzles of particle physics.

But the 38 atoms of anti-hydrogen trapped by scientists for one sixth of a second would hardly pose a threat to the Vatican.

Nor could they drive a starship, as depicted in Star Trek.

But the particles is being hailed as a major breakthrough that could help physicists develop a better understanding about the nature and origins of the universe.